With many of us spending more time at home than ever before, where you live and lay your head makes a difference in your overall lifestyle.
In CapNY, higher end apartment communities are popping up everywhere. With a higher price point, you can expect a level of luxury and unique amenities.
Luxury Living in Albany & Troy
Many of these high-end apartment buildings are offering some thoughtful additions to their properties, from a dog spa to all-in-one pricing for utilities. If you’re looking for an elevated living space with amenities close by, consider one of these properties located in and around Albany and Troy.
The News Apartments
This building is home to hundreds, perhaps thousands, of stories about the city of Troy and its people. For more than a century, the building at 501 Broadway was home to The Record newspaper offices and printing press.
The corner lot is a literal and figurative cornerstone of the Collar City. Positioned on the edge of the downtown district, the building prominently reveals RPI as its backdrop. The old newspaper building is living a second life as a luxury apartment building with a fantastic mix of small businesses — Flowers By Pesha, Bard and Baker, and Juice Factory VII are just a few options—on the first level.
Historical sensitivity
“We approached The News with a heavy sense of reverence, responsibility, dare I say, trepidation, to ensure we were able to deliver a historically sensitive but environmentally conscious building,” said Jeff Mirel, Executive Vice President of Rosenblum Companies. There are notes of the newspaper’s past throughout the building from murals to upcycled newspaper dispensing machines serving as tables and the CMYK color scheme. But there is also special attention to the building’s future. The developers paid special attention to energy efficiency and offer amenities to make being a little more environmentally savvy easy. Residents enjoy access to the CDTA bus and bikeshare system, locked bike storage and a repair center.
“Whenever you’re doing a project in a neighborhood where there’s history, it’s really important to try to tap into local culture and creativity to create and expand on that narrative,” Mirel said. Rents range from $1,500 to $2,250 with one and two bedrooms available.
Vicina – Modern Urban Flats
A few blocks over, another Rosenblum property, Vicina offers many similar amenities to The News but with some untapped potential. Currently, there is 2,600 square feet of restaurant ready space waiting for a tenant to move in.
“There’s an opportunity to provide direct access to the space from the residential side, and offer breakfast or coffee, or other options,” Mirel said.
This building also offers immediate access to all the draws of downtown Troy as well as Rosenblum’s all-in-living setup. For a flat fee each month, residents get television, internet, water, and heating/AC with no worries about setup, transfer, or fluctuating utility fees.
“We want it to be easy,” Mirel said. “It not only provides convenience but it makes an environmental impact.”
Rents here range from $1,300 to $2,250. The all-in utilities package is $175 for a 1 bedroom and $190 for two bedroom.
Starbuck Island
The Starbuck Island luxury apartment community offers proximity to downtown Troy and the perfect view of one of the region’s most popular downtowns. It’s technically on Green Island, but a five minute walk over the Green Island Bridge takes you right into downtown. It’s close enough that you can gauge how large a crowd is at the Troy Waterfront Farmer’s Market on Saturday morning before you make the walk over.
The sleek building combines waterfront views and enjoyment with a picturesque view of downtown. They’re set back far enough from the bridge so that the island feels exclusive and private, but also not too far from Troy’s downtown conveniences. Many apartments have balconies for enjoying a sunrise cup of coffee. In warmer months, residents can swim in the centrally located pool. The poolside area with waterfront views is reminiscent of a resort with a bar, shaded lounge area, and fire pits. By centering the pool between the four buildings, the space gains privacy and feels like a natural gathering area.
Literature and History
The contemporary space offers a nod to local history and a world famous author with CapNY roots. Fans of author Herman Meville’s Moby Dick may recall Starbuck is the name of Captain Ahab’s first mate. Meville reveals his local roots–including one of his former childhood homes in nearby Lansingburgh–throughout his novels. Many have thought the first mate’s name was a nod to his local ties. More formally, the island’s name comes from the Starbuck Brothers, who operated a foundry on the island in the 1850s.
The property has four separate buildings. Some space is reserved for renters of the 55-plus age range, with others open to any age.
“Our main two demographics have been young professionals and retired folks. In that younger demographic, we have a good mix of single people and couples getting their first apartment together,” Christopher said. “Some of our tenants have moved here for work from out of state. Most of them are familiar with the area and are either coming back to it, or just starting out on their own.”
Rents range from $1,400 to $1,700
The Kenmore
The Kenmore has a vibrant history as a piece of the Capital City. It started as a happening nightclub in 1922. Crowds were entertained by Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and Sophie Tucker until its closure in 1947. Over years, and various mergers and sales, the building evolved, making it an expansive piece of the downtown Albany landscape.
Now, it’s getting a second act as Redburn Development Partners has transformed it into 90-plus luxury apartments.
Inside, you feel like you’re living among history–and rightfully so!–but the apartments are completely modern and sleek. There are some really cool amenities tucked into the historic structure: indoor dog park, dog washing station, and garden area. There’s also an indoor pool, cryo tub, fitness center, and steam room.
Nearby, downtown Albany offers restaurants like The Bishop, The Hollow Bar + Kitchen, donuts from Cider Belly, and coffee from Stacks. There’s also great entertainment at The Palace, the Times Union Center, and in the summer, the Alive at Five concert series.
Day-to-day, residents can enjoy outings to the Empire State Plaza, the NY State Museum, or Jenning’s Landing for waterfront enjoyment.
“50% of people moving to Downtown Albany are moving here from outside of the area,” said Jessica Sheridan, marketing manager with Redburn Development Partners. “We have NYC transplants who are looking for city life, young professionals who can walk to work. And retirees who have downsized, looking for convenience that living in a downtown space can provide.”
Rents range from $1,295 for studios/one bedrooms to $3,650 for 3 bedroom/2.5 bathrooms
Park South Apartments
If you’re looking for luxury in the Capital City, Park South has city convenience with high level living space. The complex is near major hospitals, universities, and city attractions like Washington Park, and Lark Street’s shops. Nearby are eateries like the Lark Street Mercantile or the mainstay, El Loco Mexican Cafe.
The sleek, spacious Albany apartments feature granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The open concept living space with huge windows invites you to take in the city sights.
For an extra cozy touch, many feature fireplaces and they welcome pets! Another big draw is a washer and dryer in each unit–a rarity in city living–and covered parking spaces. The 24-hour security and video intercom system is also a notable offering for added safety.
Residents are also have easy access to the CDTA transit system and bus stops are extremely close to the apartments.
Typically, the demographics here range from 20-40 year old single, working professionals, according to the Tri City Rentals marketing office. With two bed and two bathroom apartments, it’s good option for roommates who want their own luxe space.
Rents here range from $1,425 for a studio to $2,600 for the two bed two bath models.
The Glen at Sugar Hill
The Glen at Sugar Hill is another Tri City Rentals property. Inside each unit, there are many amenities similar to Park South. Outside it’s a serene atmosphere tucked away from the bustle of Troy but still close to conveniences.
This property is located just past Hoosick Street and offers beautiful hilltop views. The balconies are perfect for checking out foliage, greenery, or a fresh snowfall. The community pool and tennis court are also tucked in among the scenery.
Nearby, there are several grocery stores and a healthy mix of small businesses and chains for food and shopping. Grab coffee and lunch at The MochaBlend Cafe, mexican food at Pancho’s, or a classic fish fry at Ted’s. It’s also close to the Poestenkill for fishing, kayaking, or enjoying some nature.
The Glen a quick drive to Troy but also worth noting that it’s close to the Vermont and Massachusetts borders. In only about 30-40 minutes you could be in Bennington or MASS Moca!
Rents here range from $1,200 to $1,400, depending on bedrooms.
Written by: Lauren Mineau
Lauren Mineau is a marketing and communications professional with a passion for highlighting the places, spaces, and people that make upstate New York a great place to be. Her experience in local news, B2B marketing, and higher education, ignited her passion for telling stories of things people are curious about. In her spare time, you can find her searching for the perfect iced coffee, juggling five craft projects at a time, or cracking the perfect pun.